Ice hockey officials considering options after CAS order to reinstate Russia
Ice hockey's ruling body is deciding how to respond to a decision by the Court of Arbitration for Sport that allows Russia back into international competition. Germany hasn't ruled out pulling out as a tournament host.
The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) recently ordered the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) to allow Russian national teams to participate in future ice hockey world championships. Following the ruling, IIHF president Franz Reindl convened a meeting of his organization's main decision-making body. Reindl emphasized the importance of implementing the decision responsibly, as several championships are approaching and changes could impact numerous individuals, including players, teams, organizers, and host cities.
The first tournament affected by the ruling is the World Juniors, scheduled to begin on December 26 in Canada. Canadian officials, including Hockey Canada and Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand, have expressed dissatisfaction with the decision, citing the geopolitical situation and Russia's actions. Canadian Secretary of State for Sport Adam van Koeverden stated that Canada will maintain restrictions on Russian athletes and explore further measures to hold the Russian government accountable.
Germany, which will host the Men's Ice Hockey World Championship in May 2025, is also considering its options in response to the ruling. German officials have expressed criticism of the CAS decision and are discussing potential consequences, including the possibility of surrendering Germany's hosting rights. Other national ice hockey federations, such as those of Ukraine, Sweden, Finland, and Czechia, have voiced disappointment with the ruling, deeming it unjustified given Russia's security concerns.
Russian Sports Minister Mikhail Degtyarev welcomed the CAS decision, stating that this discrimination in hockey has been brought to an end. However, there is speculation that Russia may target football next, given the exclusion of its national and club teams from international competitions.
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